ذَٰلِكَ بِأَنَّهُۥ كَانَت تَّأْتِيهِمْ رُسُلُهُم بِٱلْبَيِّنَـٰتِ فَقَالُوٓا۟ أَبَشَرٌ يَهْدُونَنَا فَكَفَرُوا۟ وَتَوَلَّوا۟ ۚ وَّٱسْتَغْنَى ٱللَّهُ ۚ وَٱللَّهُ غَنِىٌّ حَمِيدٌ 6
Translations
That is because their messengers used to come to them with clear evidences, but they said, "Shall human beings guide us?" and disbelieved and turned away. And Allāh dispensed [with them]; and Allāh is Free of need and Praiseworthy.
Transliteration
Dhālika bi-annahu kānat ta'tīhim rusuluhum bil-bayyināt faqālū a-basharun yahdūnunā fa-kafarū wa-tawallau wa-staghná Allāhu wa-Allāhu ghaniyyun hamīd
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah explains that the disbelievers rejected their messengers despite being presented with clear proofs and signs, arrogantly questioning how mere humans could guide them to the truth. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir emphasize that this rejection stemmed from pride and haughtiness rather than lack of evidence, as they demanded guidance from non-human sources out of stubbornness. The verse concludes that Allah is independent of their belief or disbelief, being self-sufficient and praiseworthy regardless of their response.
Revelation Context
This ayah occurs in Surah At-Taghabun (the 64th surah, revealed in Medina), which addresses the reality of loss and mutual deception on the Day of Judgment. The verse is part of a broader discourse about past nations who rejected their prophets, serving as a warning to the believers about the consequences of turning away from divine guidance.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (ﷺ) said: 'The most despised person to Allah is the most stubborn person in argument' (narrated by Al-Bukhari). Also relevant: 'Indeed, those who disbelieved from the People of the Scripture and the polytheists will be in the fire of Hell, abiding eternally therein' (Quran 98:6, often discussed alongside rejection of messengers).
Themes
Key Lesson
This verse teaches that the rejection of truth often stems not from lack of evidence but from arrogance and pride, and that believers should not despair when their message is rejected, as Allah is independent and will ultimately vindicate His messengers. It reminds us to examine our own hearts for hidden pride that might prevent us from accepting guidance.